BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken recipe
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken, a dish that effortlessly combines elegance and comfort. In under an hour, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will impress family and friends alike.
This recipe features succulent chicken breasts, perfectly seared and enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Each bite is a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to the heart of Tuscany.
Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or a romantic date night, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken is sure to elevate your dining experience. Serve it alongside lemon wedges for a refreshing finish that brightens the dish.
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Creamy Tuscan Chicken: A Perfect Weeknight Delight
Year after year, Creamy Tuscan Chicken remains a beloved favorite, and it’s easy to see why. This flavorful dish comes together in under an hour, requiring minimal effort while delivering an impressive taste that will make your guests think you spent hours in the kitchen. With a rich, creamy sauce featuring garlic, cherry tomatoes, and spinach, this chicken recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a romantic date night.
Recipe Tips
- Chicken Cooking Technique: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken breasts should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. To prevent overcooking, remove them from the skillet as soon as they are no longer pink in the center. If you prefer, you can pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking for consistent doneness.
- Flavor Boosting Options: To elevate the flavors, consider marinating the chicken breasts for a few hours before cooking. A mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme can infuse additional flavor. You can also experiment with adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
- Making it Ahead: If you want to prepare this dish in advance, cook the chicken and sauce separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This method helps preserve the flavors and ensures the chicken remains juicy.
What to Serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make a perfect side dish for this Tuscan chicken. The buttery and garlicky flavors complement the rich sauce beautifully, allowing you to savor every bite.
- Crusty Italian Bread: A warm loaf of crusty Italian bread is an excellent accompaniment. Use it to soak up the delicious creamy sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste. You can also serve it with a side of olive oil for dipping.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. The acidity of the dressing will balance the flavors nicely, creating a well-rounded meal.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe! They offer a slightly different flavor and remain tender and juicy. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. For the cheese, you can try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. - How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. - Can I freeze Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stove.
With these tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions, you’re all set to enjoy your Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Get ready to impress your family or guests with this delicious and easy-to-make dish!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 3 Tbsp. butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1/2 c. cherry tomatoes halved
- 3 c. baby spinach
- 1/2 c. heavy cream
- 1/4 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet set over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano. Sauté the chicken until it achieves a golden color and is cooked through, about 8 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately one minute until fragrant. Introduce the halved cherry tomatoes and season with additional salt and pepper. Cook the tomatoes until they begin to burst, then add the baby spinach and continue cooking until the spinach wilts slightly.
- Step 3: Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and allow the sauce to reduce slightly for about three minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is heated through, which should take an additional 5 to 7 minutes.
- Step 4: Serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty touch. Enjoy this creamy and flavorful meal, perfect for any occasion!